Firefighters rescue dog from canal

December 31, 2013

Cape Coral firefighters put their water rescue skills to good use saving a family pet that had fallen into a canal on New Year's Eve.

Firefighters from Engine 2 and Rescue 2 under the Command of Lt. Monte Ferario responded to the 1300 block of Southeast 23rd Place after a neighbor called 911 about 1:45 p.m. reporting a dog in the canal Arriving firefighters observed the dog swimming in the canal behind homes along Southeast 23rd Place. The animal was unable to get out due to the seawall.

Firefighter Frank Conner entered the water and was soon joined by the dog's owner who saw the firefighters and recognized his pet. After a few minutes the two men were able to get "Hannah" to the seawall. As a precautionary measure, a muzzle was placed on the dog to prevent her from snapping and biting the rescuers out of fear as she was removed from the water. Once in place, both firefighters and police officers along with the owner were able to rescue the dog using a ladder.

Article Photos

Dog Rescue

Source: Cape Coral Fire Department

Dog Rescue

Source: Cape Coral Fire Department

Dog Rescue

Source: Cape Coral Fire Department

Dog Rescue

Source: Cape Coral Fire Department

"She was getting worn out," said Ferario in a prepared statement. "I'm not sure how much longer she would have been able to keep going."

Source: Cape Coral Fire Department

Fact Box

The city reminds pet owners that animals, much like small children, can fall victim to hazards in and around the home. Safety tips to keep your furry friends happy and healthy in the new year include:

Just like with children, pets need to be able to get out of a canal should they fall in. Make sure you have a ladder available to allow for getting in and out of the water in an emergency.

Make sure you have a secured area for your pet. While cats tend to venture off, dogs tend to get into situations, especially around water that they may not be able to escape.

Always make sure your pet has proper identification, whether a collar with ID tag or a microchip implanted. Make sure to include a telephone number so you can be contacted if your animal is found by authorities or taken to the animal shelter.